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Can Cats Eat Macadamia Nuts?

No, avoid

Do not give macadamia nuts to cats.

Emergency? Call your vet or an animal poison hotline straight away: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 (US numbers, a consultation fee may apply).
Illustration of macadamia nuts

Are macadamia nuts safe for cats?

Macadamia nuts are creamy, round nuts that are very high in fat, often found in cookies and trail mix. Macadamia nuts are known to be toxic to dogs. Their effect on cats is not well established, but they are very fatty, so cats should not have them.

What to do instead

What to avoid

How many macadamia nuts can my cat have?

There is no amount of macadamia nuts that we can recommend for cats. Skip them entirely.

Signs your cat may be having a problem

Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your cat has eaten any of the parts listed above.

Important: Call your vet if your cat ate any, and mention any other ingredients such as chocolate.

Frequently asked questions

Can kittens eat macadamia nuts?

No. Macadamia nuts should not be given to cats of any age.

What should I do if my cat ate macadamia nuts?

Call your vet or an animal poison hotline right away, even if your cat seems fine. Tell them what was eaten, roughly how much, when, and your cat's weight. Do not try to make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to.

Is there a safe amount of macadamia nuts for my cat?

There is no amount of macadamia nuts that we can recommend, and some cats react to very small amounts. It is best not to give any.

More questions cat owners ask

Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Macadamia Nuts?

Last updated September 2026. This page is general information and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Every cat is different, so check with your vet before adding new foods, especially if your cat has health problems, is pregnant, or is very young or old.